Principal – Craig Kielburger Secondary School
What do you love most about your job?
What I love about being a Principal at CKSS is that I get to take part in so many different aspects of the school. I get to work with teacher teams on curriculum and creating safe and equitable classrooms, I also work with parents to support students’ academic plans and social-emotional health. I am a part of amazing events like prom, concerts, school dances, plays, athletics, and graduation.
But, what I actually like the best is just walking the halls, talking to students, and seeing what is happening in the classrooms.
Standing at the front of the school and welcoming students before the first bell is my favourite part of the day.
What is a challenge you face?
This is a challenging time in education. We are still seeing some students struggle to adapt back to regular school. And bathrooms. Trying to get students to stop hanging out in the bathrooms. That is challenging.
What is a recent tiny victory, quick win that you would like to celebrate today?
Last night we had our Spring Concert. It was amazing to hear over 140 musicians and singers who take part in a variety of music classes and extra curriculars show off what they have worked towards all year.
You can forget the sheer amount of creativity and talent that is a part of our school community but when you sit through a concert like that you do get awestruck. We are very lucky here.
What is your favourite quote?
“What we must do is commit ourselves to some future that can include each other and to work toward that future with the particular strengths of our individual identities. And in order for us to do this, we must allow each other our differences at the same time as we recognize our sameness.” —Audre Lorde
Joanne is a rock star! I hired her in 3 schools! Thank you for highlighting this amazing human!